14 Facts about Hyacinths

Hyacinths are flowers that look glorious when they are in full bloom. With their highly fragrant flowers that bloom in dense clusters, When the flowers open they look like tiny starfish in a range of pastel colours ranging from white to peach, pink, purple and more and this visual appeal is one of the reasons why people love them. Here are 14 facts about Hyacinths. 

1. The hyacinth started to be cultivated commercially since the 16th Century and became especially popular during the 18th and 19th Centuries.

2. Hyacinth derives from an ancient Greek legend. There are several varieties of the story. One is that two gods Apollo and Zephyr adored a handsome young Greek called Hyakinthos. Apollo was teaching Hyakinthos how to throw a discus. Zephyr (the god of the west wind) was jealous and blew the discus back. It struck Hyakinthos on the head and killed him. From his blood, grew a flower which Apollo, the god of the sun, named after him.  

3. Wild hyacinth is native of Turkey and the Middle East however they have been grown in Europe in the time of Greeks and Romans. They disappeared from history until the late 16th Century  

4. Hyacinths are not only a popular addition to the garden; they also make amazing cut flowers and indoor plants. 

5. Nowadays, hyacinth bulbs are grown for commercial use both in the UK and the Netherlands  

6. Hyacinth bulbs usually bloom from March to April   

7. There are three main varieties of hyacinths: Single, Double and Multiflora  

8. In the Victorian language of flowers, the Hyacinth flower symbolises sport or play. Blue hyacinth, in particular, signifies sincerity 

9. Hyacinth flowers are known for their intense fragrance. They are even used in the perfumery trade.  

10. During the second half of the 18th Century, breeding Hyacinths became the fashion in Germany. Even King Wilhelm III personally took care of these flowers in his palace gardens.  

11. The French have been known for using hyacinths in the past for poisoning others. They would spray the flowers with poison and then place in the bedroom of their victim.   

12. Hyacinths should be planted in early Autumn so that they have enough time to grow solid roots before the winter frost sets in.  

13. Hyacinths are prone to grey mould and bulb rot. Grey mould is a fungus that infects damaged or overly moist plants. The wetter the soil is, the higher the likelihood that the plant could develop grey mould.   

14. Hyacinths are believed to have several health benefits. They are said to be great for a range of skin disorders such as eczema and nausea. They are also meant to help soothe sore throats and snake bites.  

These 14 facts about Hyacinths show that these beautiful flowers not only have an extensive history but look amazing in any garden. They bloom in a range of gorgeous pastel shades, they are great pollinators and look equally stunning as an indoor plant. 

If you need any help with bulbs and gardening advice, then please contact us. Boston Bulbs Wholesale is a privately owned business with over 35 years’ experience of importing only the finest quality horticultural products through Europe and from farms and growers over the UK. Whether you’re a landscaper, nursery, local authority, wholesale, retailer, private business or individual gardener, give us a call on 01775 769 333 or visit https://bostonbulbswholesale.co.uk for help with flower bulbs, grass seed and more.